Lotus Excel SE

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Introduced at a time when Lotus were owned by Toyota, their new 1982 Excel model was able to draw on a number of Toyota supplied parts in its construction (a good thing), although thankfully retained the charismatic Lotus 912 Twin-Cam engine.

Initially launched in 160bhp form, a more powerful SE version with 180bhp hit the blocks in 1986 with a high compression engine, revised facia and more upmarket cabin.

This 1987 SE model was originally supplied through Yardley Wood Service Station in Birmingham, who serviced it six times until 1990 at which point it had covered 45,500 miles. Further service records on file indicate that by 1996 the total distance covered had risen to 74,800 miles, the car shortly after getting a new speedometer. From then on, it appears to have been home serviced, with numerous bills from Paul Matty Sportscars and Bell and Colevill for spares and service items.

In March 2000 a replacement engine was supplied by Garry Kemp. Described as a ‘good quality’ high compression unit with 219bhp at 6,750rpm, it was fitted with an MBE mapped ignition, gas flowed head, matched inlet manifold, 45 Dellortos, ‘full’ radius trumpets, bronze guides, new valves with steel followers and L14 camshafts with vernier adjustment. The block was fitted with Nikasil liners and new pistons and a later steel cross-drilled crankshaft with special bolts.

By 2007, the new speedometer was reading 46,500 miles, a total which has now only risen to some 47,100 miles, its most recent MOT which expires in March 2016 showing that under 500 miles have been added over the last eight years.

In good presentable condition, with just a few stonechips to the bodywork, its cloth interior is nice and clean and the car has driven some 40 miles to the sale, its owner confirming that 'it goes like stink'!